The first snow has me feeling excited for winter — and aware that the holidays are right around the corner! This time of year can be wonderful, filled with family, friends and traditions. But it can also be… a lot. Busy schedules, late nights and endless to-dos can make things feel more hectic than joyful. Here are a few gentle reminders to help you and your family find some balance (and maybe a little calm) this season.
Stick to routines (as best you can). Kids do best when life feels predictable. Try to keep nap times, bedtimes and mealtimes roughly on schedule — even when celebrations run long. A late night here and there is fine, but too many can lead to tired tears (for kids and parents). Full bellies and consistent sleep can go a long way toward keeping everyone in good spirits.
Help kids know what to expect. Holiday gatherings can be loud and full of surprises. Let your kids know ahead of time who will be there, what the plan is, and when it’s time to head home. A little preparation helps them feel more comfortable — and helps you avoid some of those mid-party meltdowns.
Protect your downtime; it’s OK to say no. You don’t have to make it to every party or event. Choose what matters most to your family and carve out some time for rest. A quiet morning at home in pajamas, baking cookies or watching snow fall out the window can be just as meaningful as any gathering and help everyone recharge.
A few cozy thoughts to carry with you:
● The best memories often happen in the quiet spaces between plans.
● Give yourself (and your kids) some grace. The holidays can be overwhelming, even when everything is “fun.”
● When things feel rushed or overstimulating, pause and reconnect. A shared laugh or a hug can do wonders.
Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season.
— Monica Benjamin is a nurse practitioner at Porter Pediatrics in Middlebury.